Soft drink maker La Casera on Monday shut down
operations at its Mile 2 Plant on the Apapa-Oshodi
Expressway in Lagos, saying it could not guarantee the
safety of workers.
This is contained in a statement by the company’s
spokesman, Mr Tola Bademosi, made available to the
News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
The statement explained that over 200 demonstrators
led by representatives of the National Union of Food,
Beverages and Tobacco Employees (NUFBTE) invaded
the company’s premises on Saturday and Monday.
The statement said that the invasion led to disruption
of production as workers were compelled by the
unionists to stop work and sign a consent form.
“Over 200 shouting demonstrators of the NUFBTE broke
into the factory which employs over 780 people at its
site near Mile 2.
“Caught unawares with no prior notice, security guards
were unable to hold back the unruly group who broke
into the complex, entering offices and production areas.
“Production line workers were compelled to stop work
and assemble in the factory yard, where they were
forced to sign membership consent forms to join the
union on the spot.’’
The statement also claimed that some of those who
refused to sign the forms were brutalised.
“Employees who tried to film the disturbance on mobile
phones were man-handled and had their phones taken
away.
“Others signed under duress before taking the
opportunity caused by a heavy downpour to flee the
scene.
“Unable to guarantee the safety of its workers, the
management was compelled to shut operations and
send everyone home.
“The plant has remained closed over the weekend with
its fate uncertain as leaders of the mob have threatened
to return with an even larger force,’’ the statement said.
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